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Legal Associate Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Legal Associate - OLR

Madison, WI · On-site +1

$55K - $66K/yr

The Legal Associate provides paraprofessional support and legal secretarial services to the various legal counsel within OLR. The Legal Associate is responsible for the typing, editing and ...

Legal Counsel - Employment Law Country: United States of America It Starts Here: Santander is a global leader and innovator in the financial services industry and is evolving from a high-impact brand ...

Intern-Legal

Madison, WI · On-site +1

$20/hr

As a Legal Intern, you would work closely with the attorneys within TDS Telecom's Legal Department ... Access to our Intern Associate Resource Group (ARG): This group provides extra resources for your ...

Intern-Legal

Madison, WI · On-site +1

$20/hr

As a Legal Intern, you would work closely with the attorneys within TDS Telecom's Legal Department ... Access to our Intern Associate Resource Group (ARG): This group provides extra resources for your ...

Intern-Legal

Madison, WI · On-site +1

$20/hr

As a Legal Intern, you would work closely with the attorneys within TDS Telecom's Legal Department ... Access to our Intern Associate Resource Group (ARG): This group provides extra resources for your ...

AmLaw 200 legal services provider seeks a highly-qualified Mid-level Associate to join its Real Estate team. The ideal candidate should have at least 5 years of experience in commercial real ...

AmLaw 200 legal services provider seeks a highly-qualified Mid-level Associate to join its Real Estate team. The ideal candidate should have at least 5 years of experience in commercial real ...

Senior Legal Counsel

Madison, WI · On-site

$140K - $190K/yr

The Senior Legal Counsel role offers growth potential opportunities, professional development, an ... business associate agreements and/or data processing agreements. * Work closely with segment ...

Senior Legal Counsel

Madison, WI · On-site

$140K - $190K/yr

The Senior Legal Counsel role offers growth potential opportunities, professional development, an ... business associate agreements and/or data processing agreements. * Work closely with segment ...

Senior Legal Counsel

Madison, WI · On-site

$140K - $190K/yr

The Senior Legal Counsel role offers growth potential opportunities, professional development, an ... business associate agreements and/or data processing agreements. * Work closely with segment ...

Associate's degree and 7 years of experience in in legal administration, compliance, contracting, vendor management, or grant writing in the managed care, health insurance industry, or legal field

Associate's degree and 7 years of experience in in legal administration, compliance, contracting, vendor management, or grant writing in the managed care, health insurance industry, or legal field

Associate Attorney

Madison, WI · On-site

$80K - $140K/yr

Associate Attorney - Criminal Defense We are seeking a motivated Associate Attorney to join a ... Conduct legal research and prepare motions, pleadings, and other legal documents. * Communicate ...

A full-service business and litigation law firm is seeking a highly qualified associate to join its Real Estate group. The ideal candidate will have 3+ years of experience in general real estate ...

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Legal Associate information

See Madison, WI salary details

$8

$29

$60

How much do legal associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for legal associate in Madison, WI is $29.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.38 and $33.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a legal associate?

Legal Associates are early-career lawyers who support more senior attorneys in a law firm or legal department. They conduct legal research, draft documents, assist with case preparation, and may represent clients under supervision. Legal Associates are typically recent law school graduates who have passed the bar exam, and their role is designed to provide hands-on experience while allowing them to develop their legal skills. Over time, Legal Associates may work toward becoming partners or taking on more senior legal positions within their organization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a legal associate?

To thrive as a Legal Associate, you need a law degree (JD or equivalent), strong research and analytical skills, and attention to detail. Familiarity with legal research databases such as Westlaw or LexisNexis, document management systems, and proficiency in drafting legal documents are essential. Excellent written and verbal communication, time management, and the ability to work collaboratively set standout candidates apart. These skills ensure effective legal analysis, high-quality client service, and successful case outcomes in a demanding legal environment.

What are some typical challenges legal associates face during their first year at a law firm?

Legal Associates often encounter challenges such as managing a high volume of work under tight deadlines, adapting to the expectations of different partners, and learning to balance administrative tasks with substantive legal research and drafting. Navigating firm culture and building relationships with senior attorneys and clients can also be demanding. However, these challenges provide valuable learning opportunities and help associates develop strong time management, communication, and legal analysis skills crucial for career growth.

What is the difference between Legal Associate vs Paralegal?

AspectLegal AssociateParalegal
Required CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), bar admission often preferredAssociate's degree or paralegal certification
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, corporate legal departments, government agenciesLaw firms, legal departments, courts, corporate offices
Job ResponsibilitiesLegal research, drafting documents, client interaction, assisting attorneysLegal research, document preparation, case organization, support tasks

Legal Associates typically hold a JD and are licensed to practice law, performing more advanced legal tasks. Paralegals assist attorneys with research and administrative duties but do not require a law degree or license. Both roles work in similar environments, but Legal Associates have a broader scope of responsibilities and legal authority.

Are legal associates in demand?

Legal associates are in demand due to ongoing legal needs across various industries, especially in corporate, healthcare, and technology sectors. The role often requires strong research, writing, and analytical skills, and employment prospects are expected to grow as legal services remain essential for businesses and individuals.

What are the most commonly searched types of Legal jobs in Madison, WI?

The most popular types of Legal jobs in Madison, WI are:

What are popular job titles related to Legal Associate jobs in Madison, WI?

For Legal Associate jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Legal Associate jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Legal Associate jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Legal Associate jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Legal Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Legal Associate job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,788 per year, or $29.2 per hour.

Legal Associate - OLR

State of Wisconsin

Madison, WI • On-site, Remote

$55K - $66K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


State Of Wisconsin rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 130 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 50 rated states


Job description

Introduction
The Wisconsin Court System's Office of Layer Regulation is seeking applicants for a full-time Legal Associate. The Legal Associate provides paraprofessional support and legal secretarial services to the various legal counsel within OLR. The Legal Associate is responsible for the typing, editing and proofreading of pleadings, briefs, reports and other litigation documents, and for independently preparing correspondence and preliminary drafts of legal documents. Many of the materials are of a sensitive and/or confidential nature. The Legal Associate also provides administrative services for OLR attorneys. This position is available starting in September 2026.
Position Summary
LOCATION: Madison, WI. Certain positions with this Department may allow remote work for a portion of their work schedule, depending on the needs of the position and the work unit. This topic may be discussed in the interview process. The position is headquartered in Wisconsin and selected candidates may be expected to report to office locations in Wisconsin on short notice. Employees residing outside the state of Wisconsin are not eligible for full-time remote work.
SALARY: $55,182 to $66,764 annually with a State of Wisconsin benefits package. Salary will be determined based on the selected candidate's qualifications and experience.
Job Details
RESPONSIBILITIES:
1) Provide paralegal support to OLR intake, investigative, and litigation counsel by obtaining evidence/documents and drafting, organizing, and evaluating materials for confidential matters. 2) Perform complex factual and legal analysis to support intake, investigations, and litigation, and assist in developing and implementing legal strategy. 3) Perform closure and post-discipline work, including cost collection matters such as filing judgments/satisfactions, investigating debtors, logging payments, recommending write-offs, and monitoring compliance. 4) Provide logistical support to intake, investigative and assistant litigation counsel. 5) Serve on internal OLR committees to evaluate and revise processes and recommend policy changes. 6) Perform other duties and special projects as assigned by the Director.
Qualifications
Required: 1) Bachelor's degree in legal studies, criminal justice, or a related field. 2) 1-3 years of experience providing legal assistance. 3) Experience supporting litigation and regulatory proceedings, including preparing and managing filings (complaints, motions, subpoenas, briefs, and orders) and organizing exhibits and evidentiary materials for hearings. 4) Experience using case management systems (e.g., Actionstep) and maintaining paper and electronic case files to track workflow, deadlines, and filings. 5) Knowledge of legal terminology, court filing procedures, service requirements, litigation timelines, and Wisconsin lawyer regulation processes, including Wisconsin Supreme Court Rules governing attorney discipline and procedure. 6) Skill in legal research using Westlaw, Lexis, or similar databases, and in drafting, proofreading, and formatting professional legal correspondence and documents to support litigation and regulatory matters. 7) Ability to coordinate with attorneys, referees, court staff, and external parties while managing multiple litigation matters and strict filing deadlines.
Preferred: 8) Knowledge of and experience with Wisconsin attorney regulation processes and the ethical rules governing the practice of law.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
1) Employment will require a criminal background check. 2) The Wisconsin Court System does not sponsor work visas. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States, and to complete the required employment eligibility form upon hire.
How To Apply
Please submit a cover letter and resume in a single .pdf document indicating the position #26-2635 Legal Associate - OLR to human.resources@wicourts.gov . All materials should address your relevant education, experience, and skills as it relates to the qualifications and special requirements listed above. Failure to follow these procedures may result in your disqualification.
Deadline to Apply
In order to be assured consideration, applications must be received by 11:59 PM on September 7th, 2026. The Wisconsin Court System will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified applicants when requested. For additional information on the court system visit our website at www.wicourts.gov .
Notice: Upon request, all prospective employees can obtain a copy of the Equal Employment Opportunity Utilization Report.

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